Sudan’s newly appointed Prime Minister Kamil Idris has issued a stern call for foreign governments to immediately end their support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), as the civil war enters its second year with devastating humanitarian consequences. Speaking from Port Sudan on Sunday, Idris denounced what he described as “criminal operations” orchestrated by foreign states backing the RSF, which has been locked in a brutal conflict with the Sudanese Armed Forces since April 15, 2023.
“National security and Sudanese sovereignty demand the eradication of the rebellion and insurgent militias,” Idris said, directly appealing to governments “that plan, finance, and cooperate in these operations” to halt their involvement. He vowed to “serve the Sudanese people with sincerity and dedication,” framing his leadership as a turning point in restoring state authority. Sudan’s government has repeatedly accused the United Arab Emirates, along with Chad, Libya, and South Sudan, of arming and financing the RSF—allegations those countries have denied or refused to comment on.
The UN estimates that over 24,000 people have been killed, although the true toll is likely much higher. More than 14 million people have been displaced, including 4 million refugees who have crossed into neighboring nations. The war has been marred by widespread atrocities, particularly in Darfur, where mass rapes, ethnic massacres, and deliberate starvation tactics have been documented. The UN and international rights groups have described many of these actions as war crimes and crimes against humanity.
A famine emergency has now been declared in at least five regions, with the worst-hit areas concentrated in Darfur, where humanitarian access remains nearly impossible due to ongoing fighting and RSF blockades. As Idris assumes office amid one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, observers warn that any political solution will require regional pressure, accountability for atrocities, and a decisive end to foreign interference in Sudan’s internal conflict.
